Understanding Placental Abruption with Dr. Andrei Rebarber

Posted On: September 27, 2024 By admin_ciw

In a recent episode of the Healthful Woman podcast, host Dr. Nathan Fox spoke with Dr. Andrei Rebarber about placental abruption, a rare but serious pregnancy complication. The discussion focused on the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options for this condition. Learn more about placental abruption, risk factors, treatment options, and management.

What Is Placental Abruption?

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the wall of the uterus before delivery, either partially or completely. This detachment can reduce or block the baby’s supply of oxygen and nutrients while also causing significant bleeding for the mother. Though rare, with an occurrence rate of less than 1% in pregnancies, this condition can have severe consequences if not diagnosed and managed promptly. Common symptoms include vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, and uterine tenderness, usually appearing after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Risk Factors and Symptoms

Several factors increase the risk of placental abruption, including high blood pressure, smoking, drug use, and trauma to the abdomen. Additionally, mothers with a history of placental complications or conditions such as preeclampsia are at a higher risk. The severity of placental abruption can vary. Some cases may involve minor bleeding with no immediate danger to the mother or baby, while others can lead to significant blood loss, distress for the fetus, and even preterm birth. Dr. Fox states, “If she’s (the mother) preterm, the bleeding, as you said, can lead to contractions, can lead to premature labor, and premature birth.” The most common indicators of placental abruption are vaginal bleeding and persistent abdominal pain, and in some cases, the uterus may become firm due to the bleeding.

Treatment and Management

Several factors increase the risk of placental abruption, including high blood pressure, smoking, drug use, and trauma to the abdomen. Additionally, mothers with a history of placental complications or conditions such as preeclampsia are at a higher risk. The severity of placental abruption can vary. Some cases may involve minor bleeding with no immediate danger to the mother or baby, while others can lead to significant blood loss, distress for the fetus, and even preterm birth. Dr. Fox states, “If she’s (the mother) preterm, the bleeding, as you said, can lead to contractions, can lead to premature labor, and premature birth.” The most common indicators of placental abruption are vaginal bleeding and persistent abdominal pain, and in some cases, the uterus may become firm due to the bleeding.

Learn More

Listen to the full episode of the Healthful Woman podcast today to learn more about placental abruption and other important topics in pregnancy health. For specialized care in maternal-fetal medicine, Carnegie Imaging for Women offers expert support and resources to help manage high-risk pregnancies. Contact us today through our online contact form to schedule an appointment.

Carnegie Imaging for Women blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!

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